Subject: Urgent Concern — Opposing Prescription Drug Purchases from Canada Dear [Legislator's Full Name], I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits during these challenging times. I am writing to express my deep concern and opposition to the idea of allowing prescription drug purchases from Canada for residents of Houston, Texas. Being a responsible citizen and an advocate for pharmacy safety, I strongly believe that this proposed solution is not only detrimental to our local economy but also poses significant risks to public health. Houston, Texas, a vibrant and diverse city, is home to numerous pharmaceutical companies, pharmacies, and healthcare professionals. These entities play a crucial role in providing accessible, safe, and high-quality medications to our community. By allowing prescription drug purchases from international sources like Canada, we undermine the hard work and integrity of these local establishments, putting their viability and sustainability at risk. While the idea of importing drugs from Canada may initially appear to be a cost-effective solution, it fails to consider the potential dangers associated with such a system. The safety and efficacy of medications should always be the top priority for the well-being of patients. Unfortunately, imported drugs may not adhere to the same rigorous standards, monitoring, and quality assurance procedures as those implemented by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This disparity in regulations could expose our residents to counterfeit or substandard medications, putting their health and lives in jeopardy. Furthermore, introducing a parallel drug importation system creates a vulnerable pathway for unscrupulous individuals to exploit Houston's pharmaceutical supply chain. The risk of counterfeit medications infiltrating the market would skyrocket, undermining patient trust in the healthcare system and leading to severe consequences for public health and safety. It is essential to acknowledge the efforts made by the U.S. pharmaceutical industry to ensure drug affordability. Various programs such as patient assistance programs, manufacturer discounts, and negotiated pricing arrangements have been implemented to address the issue. Instead of endangering our citizens and local economy, we should focus on building on these existing initiatives to help individuals who struggle with prescription costs within our own country. In conclusion, I implore you to consider the potential repercussions of allowing prescription drug purchases from Canada in Houston, Texas. The risks to patient safety, the impact on local businesses, and the weakened pharmaceutical supply chain are too great to ignore. I strongly urge you to vote against any legislation that supports the importation of prescription drugs from Canada. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter, and for representing the best interests of our community. I trust that with your guidance, we can find alternative solutions that prioritize affordable healthcare while safeguarding the well-being of our residents. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Email Address] [Phone Number]
Para su conveniencia, debajo del texto en español le brindamos la versión completa de este formulario en inglés. For your convenience, the complete English version of this form is attached below the Spanish version.